Vanson! Vanson! Vanson!

[Bluechel]

I wish they still made these Swedish police style motorcycle jackets

View attachment 478738

They do now....

 

[ojaw]

Hello all, I'm new to this thread, and I have questions : )

I'm looking at picking up a Comet for scooter use around town (top speed is 100kph, so yeah, mostly around town).
I have what I consider a nice leather jacket in the Mr Freedom Campus, but I've found that as I use it almost exclusively on the bike, it's become clear that it's not ideal for that purpose; it's too long in the front, the collar isn't really useful for keeping bugs out, the cuffs aren't designed for this purpose either, and the arms could be longer.

So, I think the Comet might be a good option.
And, I like, and require, short jackets for riding as I have big hips for a guy, and so the jacket should end above them.

Opinions, ideas, suggestions?

Oh, and which leather for the kind of riding I do?

Thanks!

 

[Mandarin]

Comet is a good idea, and probably the best option in your case.
If you can visit a Vanson shop, you can also try other models like the C2, which is short as well, with perhaps a more MC vibe.
As for the leather, comp weight is the way to go.

 

[ojaw]

Comet is a good idea, and probably the best option in your case.
If you can visit a Vanson shop, you can also try other models like the C2, which is short as well, with perhaps a more MC vibe.
As for the leather, comp weight is the way to go.

Thanks, I’m in the middle of Canader, so no try ons : (
Likely order through Bison Trading, they seem to have good prices.
I guess the comp weight, especially since it’s considered to be lighter than yore, might be ideal for my usage.

 

[ojaw]

Another question, are Vanson jackets, specifically the Comet, sized different in the modern era than they were in the 80s-90s?

Thanks

 

[AeroFan_07]

I have a new-condition but year 2000 produced Size 50 Comet that is heavier, stiffer Comp-Weight that is still not broken in. It's still on the short side, but much more reasonable than earlier ones that could have a 21" back length (!) This one is around 24". I also find the sleeves really tighten up as you zip them closed (this is a positive for riding) and the collar stays out of your way. They like most Vanson model, have good to great mobility while wearing them. The Large Factor to consider with a Comet is there not any type of waist adjustment at all. It just is what it is. I'm usually a size "46" in jackets such as this (CR's in general). My current one is a "50" and borderline too large but it works with a sweatshirt under it. I traded for it.

This is sold (traded) but gives an idea what a 2000 + produced Comet in a size 46 has for dimensions, hope it helps:
https://www.thefedoralounge.com/threads/vanson-comet-size-46-2000-produced.120430/

 

[ojaw]

I have a new-condition but year 2000 produced Size 50 Comet that is heavier, stiffer Comp-Weight that is still not broken in. It's still on the short side, but much more reasonable than earlier ones that could have a 21" back length (!) This one is around 24". I also find the sleeves really tighten up as you zip them closed (this is a positive for riding) and the collar stays out of your way. They like most Vanson model, have good to great mobility while wearing them. The Large Factor to consider with a Comet is there not any type of waist adjustment at all. It just is what it is. I'm usually a size "46" in jackets such as this (CR's in general). My current one is a "50" and borderline too large but it works with a sweatshirt under it. I traded for it.

This is sold (traded) but gives an idea what a 2000 + produced Comet in a size 46 has for dimensions, hope it helps:
https://www.thefedoralounge.com/threads/vanson-comet-size-46-2000-produced.120430/

Thanks for the info, I'm looking at a jacket on the FromJapan site, and unfortunately the translation (or possibly original info) is a little confused, especially the chest measurement.

Here's the description:

Excellent condition Vanson leather biker jacket, single and double-breasted, vintage, brown core

Description
This 80s-90s Vanson Comet leather jacket is made in the USA with a TALON zipper and brown cowhide core. Its snug fit and comfortable fit are perfect for Japanese builds. This rare early 80s-90s Talon Zip Comet is a rare item. It measures 36 (S-M). It measures 44cm (17.5"), 48cm (17.5"), 57.5cm (22.5"), 42cm (17.5"), and 64cm (24.5"), and is measured by an amateur. Please allow for slight variations in measurements. I purchased this item new as deadstock a while ago and wore it as everyday wear. However, I'm now selling it because I've changed my style. It has some scuffs, wrinkles, and signs of wear, but since it was only worn a few times, it's in excellent condition inside and out. It has been carefully stored after cleaning. Please only purchase if you understand the condition of a used item. This BUCO J100 Real McCoy's Langlitz Leather Bike is a genuine McCoy's Langlitz leather bike.

 

[Mandarin]

Thanks for the info, I'm looking at a jacket on the FromJapan site, and unfortunately the translation (or possibly original info) is a little confused, especially the chest measurement.

Here's the description:

Excellent condition Vanson leather biker jacket, single and double-breasted, vintage, brown core

Description
This 80s-90s Vanson Comet leather jacket is made in the USA with a TALON zipper and brown cowhide core. Its snug fit and comfortable fit are perfect for Japanese builds. This rare early 80s-90s Talon Zip Comet is a rare item. It measures 36 (S-M). It measures 44cm (17.5"), 48cm (17.5"), 57.5cm (22.5"), 42cm (17.5"), and 64cm (24.5"), and is measured by an amateur. Please allow for slight variations in measurements. I purchased this item new as deadstock a while ago and wore it as everyday wear. However, I'm now selling it because I've changed my style. It has some scuffs, wrinkles, and signs of wear, but since it was only worn a few times, it's in excellent condition inside and out. It has been carefully stored after cleaning. Please only purchase if you understand the condition of a used item. This BUCO J100 Real McCoy's Langlitz Leather Bike is a genuine McCoy's Langlitz leather bike.

Apparently, the seller didn't convert correctly some of the measurements from cm to inches, which can be confusing. Nor did he specify what they measured. In all likelihood, here's how I would understand it:
Shoulders: 17.5"
PtP: 19"
Back length: 22.5"
Hem: 16.5"
Sleeves: 25"

 

[Peter Mackin]

Does anyone have a model E made around late 2014 ..thoughts on the leather? Im unsure if this jacket will be the newer or the old stuff. thanks Peter

 

[AeroFan_07]

I'd be very careful using the From Japan site. I only use ebay and FL classifieds (and occasional local in-person finds too). Honestly look at brand-new ones right out of Vanson, the Comet is only around $599

https://www.vansonleathers.com/111-traditional?style=COMTBLK

 

[TartuWolf]

I'd be very careful using the From Japan site. I only use ebay and FL classifieds (and occasional local in-person finds too). Honestly look at brand-new ones right out of Vanson, the Comet is only around $599

https://www.vansonleathers.com/111-traditional?style=COMTBLK

I've used From Japan for a few years now, 15+ orders/purchases, only positive experience so far.

 

[ojaw]

I'd be very careful using the From Japan site. I only use ebay and FL classifieds (and occasional local in-person finds too). Honestly look at brand-new ones right out of Vanson, the Comet is only around $599

https://www.vansonleathers.com/111-traditional?style=COMTBLK

I’ve generally had good experiences buying from Japan, though in this case I’ll likely try first getting new one from a Canadian retailer as the returns are much simpler.

 

[ojaw]

Ordered a new Comet in the competition leather, we’ll see how that goes.
Thanks for the pointers everyone!

 

[ojaw]

I should add the caveat that the order partly depends on the retailer getting me sweep measurements, which were an issue on a used Vanson B I tried .

 

[Bawheid]

Comet is true to size but fits trim.
Us more portly figured gents wince a wee bit.
Ask me how I know ?
Mine is a US44, bought new in 2017.
Hardly worn. Maybe 10 occasions.
If that.
Just too many to choose.
I have Vanson
Comet
Sturgis
Raid
And sold my Ike (too hot 9 months)

 

[ojaw]

Comet is true to size but fits trim.
Us more portly figured gents wince a wee bit.
Ask me how I know ?
Mine is a US44, bought new in 2017.
Hardly worn. Maybe 10 occasions.
If that.
Just too many to choose.
I have Vanson
Comet
Sturgis
Raid
And sold my Ike (too hot 9 months)

Thanks! My waist is 33", chest is 36", so I'm hoping the jacket is short enough to not ride up on my hip bones.

 

[ojaw]

And the sale is off, 3 months+ wait time, I'd like the jacket question settled well before spring. : (

 

[Bawheid]

And the sale is off, 3 months+ wait time, I'd like the jacket question settled well before spring. : (

Sounds like new off the rack from Vanson direct ?

 

[ojaw]

Sounds like new off the rack from Vanson direct ?

That would be more expensive for sure, with a likely long lead time as well, though not as long as Bison Trading would be. Not living in the US makes these jackets much more dear.

Of course now I'm rethinking the whole approach, maybe a longer waxed jacket with a two way zipper would accommodate my needs as well.

 

[Bawheid]

The Vanson Comet by comparison is not that expensive compared to many artisan jacket makers.

I am sure you must have looked at Vanson's website ?

https://www.vansonleathers.com/111-traditional